He also played for the Pittsburgh Penguins’ minor league team in Wilkes-Barre/Scranton eight years ago.

Pittsburgh Penguins General Manager Jim Rutherford and the Wheeling Nailers organization released statements on Gove’s death on Friday.

Rutherford’s statement says, “The Pittsburgh Penguins organization is saddened by the passing of Dave Gove. Dave touched many lives in the hockey world as both a player and coach. We express our deepest sympathy to his family and friends.”

The Nailers’ statement reads as follows: “We are shocked and saddened to hear of the death of Coach Gove. David was a bright, caring person that was admired. His positive contributions to the Nailer organization made the team and staff better. We extend our deepest sympathy to Katie, his young son Cullen, and the rest of his family and friends.”